Wednesday, May 27, 2015

It is here. The moment you have been waiting for all year or maybe even your entire life. Time to head to Auburn University and begin what is sure to be the best years of your life. But first, it is time to get oriented to life here on The Plains and Camp War Eagle is ready to help. Approximately 75 student and parent counselors are ready to answer all of your questions from where do I eat to how do I register for classes and everything in between. Below we will give you a brief overview of what to expect during orientation, but for more detailed information, please visit www.auburn.edu/cwe.

I am a STUDENT...

If you are not a student, feel free to skip this section, but if you are... CONGRATS! Not only does Auburn University welcome new students, the City of Auburn welcomes new residents. I think you will find the Auburn community to be very welcoming and ready to share our beautiful city with you. You will have a chance to meet some of the business community during CWE, but more on that later. The most important question today is, what should I expect?

You must first activate your Auburn University User Account at http://www.auburn.edu/activate. You will need your User Name and Student ID number (also known as your Banner ID number) to enable your account. Both of these pieces of information are in your deposit confirmation letter (sent after you submit the $200 tuition deposit).

If you have technical difficulties obtaining your password, please call the Information Technology Help Desk at (334)844-4944. If you cannot find your User Name and ID number and need a duplicate copy of your deposit confirmation letter, call the Office of Admission Processing at (334) 844-6429.

Look for the Student Orientation Registration window, and click on Camp War Eagle Registration.

Complete all the fields.

Check your Tigermail account for a confirmation message.

What to expect?
During the two-day session, you will have the chance to meet new freshman, interact with faculty and staff, see what all Auburn has to offer with clubs, organizations and services, and most importantly, and probably what you are most nervous about, register for classes. The camp is crucial to your time at Auburn and is required for all incoming freshman.

Where do I stay?
All students attending CWE will stay in dorms on campus. You will have a roommate, as well as two suite mates. This will give you a great opportunity to meet new people, and who knows, maybe even a future roommate!

What should I bring?
The following are suggested items, but let me warn you... It will be hot. If you are from out of state, especially not from the south, and have never experienced an Alabama summer, you are about to be introduced to it very quickly. So my personal piece of advice is to dress comfortable and cool. Here are some other items you don't want to forget:

Casual clothes (shorts, t-shirts, etc.)

Comfortable shoes for walking

Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, toothbrush & toothpaste, etc.

Sheets, towels, & washcloths

An alarm clock

A backpack

Personal spending money

Rain gear (just in case)

Confirmation letter and parking pass

For more information on the camp schedule and more questions answered, visit www.auburn.edu/cwe.

I am a PARENT...

Congrats Mom & Dad, you are now an Auburn Parent. Although CWE is mainly for students, Auburn doesn't want to leave you out. You will have your own version of CWE that you can opt to go through. The City of Auburn also wants to welcome you to the Plains and wants to make sure you know exactly where and how your student will spend his or her days at Auburn. So here are a few things to help you get started!

What should I expect?
As a parent, you will have a lot of questions, we are sure. The CWE Parent Sessions occur at the same time the student sessions are going on. You will have a chance to familiarize yourself with the services, procedures and life at Auburn. Each parent will be in groups with a parent counselor to assist you with the process. You will also have the opportunity to have an academic session with your student to set your mind at ease.

Where do I stay?
Unfortunately parents, you do not get to stay with your student in the dorm. This is a special time for your student and an opportunity for them to meet new people and start building a life here at Auburn. Have no fear, I think you will find your accommodations much more comfortable. There are many hotels in the Auburn-Opelika area and the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau is ready to help you find the perfect place to stay. Feel free to visit our website, www.aotouism.com/accommodations, and have a look for yourself, or give us a call at (334) 887-8747 and we will be happy to help you and answer any questions you might have about the Auburn area.

What should I bring and are they going to feed me?
Just like the students, the CWE staff urges you to wear comfortable and cool shoes and clothes. It is hot during the summer months in Auburn, and if you aren't used to it, just take our word for it. On the other hand, have a sweater or jacket ready to throw on, as meeting rooms can get cold, and as always, don't forget that rain gear, a shower can pop up out of no where! During CWE, you will also be fed breakfast, lunch and dinner the first day and breakfast and lunch the second day. Of course you are always free to explore the Auburn area and experience some of our amazing dining options. For a complete list of dining options, please visit www.aotourism.com/dining.

What if I have young children that come?
The Tiger Cub program will be offered during Session 5 of CWE (June 18-19). This is a program for children, ages 6-12, who are attending CWE with a parent. The prorgam offers a variety of activities and will keep your child busy while you are learning about Auburn and Auburn University. The fee is $30 per child and will cover lunch, t-shirt and program materials. Please click here to register for the 2015 Tiger Cubs program.

Well there ya have it! I know you are eager to get to Auburn and start your years here at THE best university (ok, we are partial). As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to visit www.auburn.edu/cwe or give the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau a call at (334) 887-8747 and we will help you in any way that we can!

CWE DATES

May 28-29 (Th-F)

June 4-5 (Th-F)

June 8-9 (M-Tu)

June 11-12 (Th-F)

June 18-19 (Th-F)

June 22-23 (M-Tu)

June 25-26 (Th-F)

July 9-10 (Th-F)

July 13-14 (M-Tu)

July 16-17 (Th-F)

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

May 25-31: Bluegrass on the Plains at University Station RV Resort
May 27: Noon Toons at noon at the Opelika Courthouse Square
May 28-29: Camp War Eagle Session 1
May 28-31: USTA Alabama 3.5 & 4.5 Tennis Tournament
May 28: May Concert Series from 6-7:30 p.m. at Town Creek Park
May 28: Dan Navarro in concert at Sundilla at 7:30 p.m.
May 29: Keith Moody at 6 p.m. at the Bottling Plant Event Center
May 29: Rock Killough in concert at Blooming Colors at 7:30 p.m.
May 30: Burger Wars from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Courthouse Square in Opelika

Monday, May 18, 2015

Tests are done, the last grades are being posted and the bell will soon ring for the last time, which can only mean one thing... SCHOOL IS OUT! As many city schools are winding down this week, kids and parents are ready for a break from homework, after school activities and all of the hussle and bussle that is the school year, and ready for the easy, breezy, laid back atmostphere of summer. If you are like most parents, you will have happy kids for the first few weeks, and then the dreaded, "I'm bored..." statement is back. Luckily, Auburn and Opelika are both prepared to take the burden off of you with the many camps for every interest. Below are just a few, but be sure to check www.aotourism.com for new camps added every day!

For the athlete:

CAMPS AT AUBURN UNIVERSITYAuburn University Football Camps: If your child is looking to brush up on some of his or her offensive, defensive, or kicking techniques, send them to the professionals... the Auburn Tigers that is. Head Coach Gus Malzahn and staff have put together a summer full of camps to benefit your child by improving their overall skills, and keeping them from sitting on the couch all day. For more information, visit www.auburnfootballcamps.com.

Auburn University Baseball Camps: Since baseball season is winding down for rec leagues and school ball, why not continue working on pitching or hitting that homerun on the off season. Under Coach Sunny Galloway, the Auburn Tigers have laid a great foundation for the future of AU Baseball, and they can't wait to share the excitement with your child. For more information, visit www.collegebaseballcamps.com/tigers.

Auburn University has camps in almost every other sport, including Equestrian, Golf, Swimming & Diving, Tennis and so much more. For information on all camps, visit www.auburntigers.com/camps.

HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS
Auburn High School also has camps that may be more cost efficient and convenient. Below are dates for athletic camps at Auburn High School:

For the performer:

Auburn University Summer Band Camps: The award winning Auburn University Band is ready to help your child excel in every area this summer. They offer camps in percussion, symphonic band, majorette, colorguard and dance. These camps, while great for every skill level, is especially great for those interested in being involved in band in college. For more information, visit www.auburn.edu/auband.

AHS Mini-Majorette Camp: The Auburn High School majorette line wants to share their passion with your child this summer. The camp is for Ages 4 through upcoming 8th graders. This camp is great for sparking interest in baton twirling or for 8th graders to perfect those basics before tryouts next year. The camp is June 8-10. Contact Holley Mullen at aufamilyx3@bellsouth.net for more information.

Also be sure to check out the City of Auburn's theatre camps available all summer long for different ages. Visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks or check out the summer brochure for more information!

For the artist:

City of Auburn Art Camps: The City of Auburn wants to help your young Picasso this summer. With camps for all ages, you can't let your child miss out. Below are camp dates, but for more detailed information, visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks or check out the summer brochure!

The City of Opelika Art Camp: The camp begins July 20 and lasting through the 24. This is the 12th year of this hands on art class and has quickly become a hit. Student will use various media to create masterpieces. for more information, please visit www.opelika.org/opr or pick up your copy of The Park Bench today!

For the explorer:

The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center has a summer full of camps to fulfill the need to explorer in your child. Be sure to check out www.auburn.edu/preserve for detailed information on each camp and to register. Below are the dates:

Those are just a few of the many camps offered this summer. Although I couldn't list them all, make sure to check out Auburn University, Auburn City Schools, Opelika City Schools, City of Auburn and City of Opelika websites and social media pages for other camps and further information on all camps listed here. As always, if you have any questions, please give us a call at (334) 887-8747 or visit our website at www.aotourism.com.

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

May 20: Landscape Watercolor Class at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center.
May 21: May Concert Series from 6-7:30 from Town Creek Park.
May 23-25: GOALFEST at Chewacla State Park.
May 25-31: Bluegrass on the Plains at University Station RV Resort.

Monday, May 11, 2015

Big things are happening in Downtown Auburn. With new restaurants, retailers and brand new oak trees, Auburn is looking better than ever, but it doesn't stop there. Downtown Auburn is getting a makeover! Although things are going to be a little hectic for the next few months, we can't wait to show off our beautiful new downtown in the fall!

Today, May 11, marks the first day of the new Toomer's Corner Intersection Improvements Project. The intersection will close to allow for construction to begin. The renovation will bring several improvements to the intersection including raising the intersection to match the elevation of the sidewalks, new crosswalks and a permanent tiger paw made of paviers will be constructed. Aside from the road itself, the sidewalks of downtown will be included in the makeover with new trees, brick seat walls and overall general sidewalk improvements. New decorative traffic signal poles will be added as well to enhance lighting and overall appeal.

I know what your thinking, how in the world am I going to shop, dine and play in Downtown Auburn with all of this construction going on? Have no fear, downtown Auburn's retail stores, restaurants, and bars will remain open and fully functional throughout the whole process. Don't let gates and road closures stop you from enjoying all that Downtown Auburn has to offer. With free parking until August 17, there are no excuses. To make parking decisions easier, below is a list of all the available parking for the summer from www.auburnalabama.org/cornerconstruction!

Parking:

Downtown parking will be free during the Corner Construction project. Parking will still be limited to two hours (on-street) and four hours (parking lots) during weekday business hours (Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) to keep parking as available as possible for everyone who wants to visit downtown. All three floors of the municipal parking deck will be opened for free parking to offset on-street parking that will be unavailable during construction. The municipal parking deck will be available for four-hour parking during businesses hours and will remain open on evenings and weekends.

Free, on-street parking will be available on Gay Street, Tichenor Avenue, Wright Street and as follows:

South College Street Parking: Even though South College Street will be closed to through traffic from Thach Avenue to Magnolia Avenue, normal on-street parallel parking will still be available. A cut-through will be created in the median to allow drivers visiting downtown to get back to Thach Avenue. New, temporary, on-street parking will be created on the campus side of the road.

North College Street Parking: North College Street will be closed to through traffic from Glenn Avenue to Magnolia Avenue. Some parking will be available up to about the mid-block crossing. A temporary cul-de-sac will be created with on-street striping to allow traffic to park and leave. Cars will still be able to access the University Inn during construction.

East Magnolia Avenue Parking: East Magnolia Avenue will be closed to through traffic from Gay Street to College Street. Some parking will be available up to the mid-block crossing. A temporary cul-de-sac will be created with on-street striping to allow traffic to park and leave. Cars will be able to access the Compass Bank parking lot from Gay Street.

West Magnolia Avenue Parking: West Magnolia Avenue will be closed to through traffic from Wright Street to College Street, with Wright Street serving as a detour for northbound traffic during the construction.

We are so excited to see how the improvements will impact our city and make shopping, dining and playing more enjoyable to residents and visitors. For updates on the Corner Construction, please visit www.auburnalabama.org/cornerconstruction and be sure to use the hashtag #cornerconstruction to easily find updates on Facebook and Twitter!

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

May 12: Discovery Hike at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center at 3:30 p.m.
May 12: Auburn Baseball vs. Morehead State at 6 p.m. at Plainsman Park
May 14: Nature Walk at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center at 8:30 a.m.
May 14: May Concert Series featuring SoulCo from 6-7:30 p.m. at Town Creek Park
May 16: Aviation Education Outreach Fly-In at the Auburn Regional Airport
May 16: 23rd Annual Fishing Rodeo from 8-11 a.m. at the Auburn Technology Park South Lake
May 17: 5K Trail Run, Tot Trot & Sunday Stroll at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center at 1 p.m.
May 17: Spring Art Show & open House at the East Lake Estates Model Home from 1-4 p.m.

Monday, May 4, 2015

Summer is right around the corner, and what better way to kick it off than a good ole fashioned BBQ? Katie Tynes, Auburn Chamber of Commerce PR & Marketing Intern, is here to tell us all about it!

The Auburn Chamber of Commerce is hosting its third Boda Getta BBQ competition at University Station RV Resort off Highway 14 in Auburn on Friday, May 8 and Saturday, May 9. This Kansas City Barbecue Society sanctioned event will bring professional and amateur barbecue teams from all over the Southeast to the Plains to compete for the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion titles. Event proceeds will benefit FACES- The Foundation for Auburn's Continuing Enrichment in Schools- a local non-profit that funds and encourages creative programs in classrooms within Auburn City Schools.

The two-day competition will boast barbecue in every style and form. For those who consider barbecuing more of a spectator sport, there will be live entertainment throughout the weekend, vendors such as Sweet Bones, Cindy Cakes, Snack Shack and Fork in the Road, LLC, sponsors, antique tractor exhibits, a kids' zone with inflatables and crafts and a children's one-mile Fun Run. General admission tickets will be $5 per person per day at the gate, while children age 15 and under accompanied by parents can attend for free.

Professional Teams will have the opportunity to compete for $11,000 in cash prizes along with the Grand Champion title. Amateur "tailgate" teams will compete for the chance to have their team announced as the "Best Tailgaters in Auburn" at the first home football game on the newest and largest college jumbotron in the country.

The weekend festivities will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday night, with entertainment from the Fountain City Players from 7 to 10:30 p.m. On Saturday morning, children from throughout Auburn City Schools will get an early start at the FACES one-mile fun run. The Kid's Zone will open at 9 a.m. when gates open back up to the general public.

Families can meet Travis the Camel and Fred the Alpaca from Fred the Alpaca from Farmer Brown's Party Animals petting zoo from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday morning. The Kid's Zone will also include a tractor exhibit, inflatables and more. Entertainment from the local Spicer's Music will begin at 11 a.m. and play until the competition winners are announced at 3 p.m.

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Who is FACES?

All the proceeds from the event will go toward FACES, the Foundation for Auburn's Continuing Enrichment in Schools. FACES is a non-profit organization that promotes innovative opportunities that enrich the educational experiences of students at Auburn City Schools. The Foundation falls under the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and funds mini-grants of up to $600 to teachers promoting programs for classroom experience enhancement. With over 1,000 grand proposals received since its start in 1985, they have given a total of 567 mini-grants to teachers in the amount of over $224,000.

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About the Blogger

Cat Watson is the newest addition to the Tourism Bureau. Naturally, the blog became her first responsibility. Cat graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Public Relations and now serves as the Communications Specialist for the AOTB. Cat is a true Auburn local, having lived here her whole life. She enjoys writing and loves to edit even more.